Understanding how cells become different types like liver or skin cells
Official title: Genomic Analysis into Transcriptional Regulation of Cell Identity
Funded at Davidson College · NIH-10513735 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain proteins help cells become different types, like liver or skin cells, using a tiny worm called C. elegans, and the findings could help us understand how changes in these proteins might lead to diseases in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Davidson College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davidson, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $380,521 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM147889-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10513735 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic disorders linked to transcription factor mutations or those interested in the underlying mechanisms of cell differentiation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to transcription factor function or gene regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how transcription factors, which are proteins that regulate gene expression, help cells develop into specific types such as liver or skin cells. By studying the model organism C. elegans, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which these transcription factors recognize specific DNA sequences to activate or deactivate genes. This understanding could shed light on how mutations in these factors can lead to various human diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the fundamental processes of cell differentiation and gene regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating diseases caused by mutations in transcription factors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding transcription factor mechanisms in other model organisms, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Davidson College
Davidson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thurtle-Schmidt, Deborah — Davidson College
- Study coordinator: Thurtle-Schmidt, Deborah
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.